What are the signs of severe choking in an adult?

The signs of severe choking in an adult center on the body's response to an obstructed airway. Inability to speak, breathing difficulties, and clutching the throat are hallmark indicators of severe choking. When an individual is severely choking, the airway is compromised to the extent that they cannot speak because there is insufficient air flow, signaling a dire situation. Breathing difficulties manifest as the person struggles to get enough air, which may lead to panic or distress. The action of clutching the throat is a common instinctive response known as the universal choking sign, indicating to bystanders that the person is experiencing a critical emergency requiring immediate intervention.

In this context, recognizing these signs allows for rapid response, which is crucial for the individual's survival. Without prompt action, severe choking can lead to unconsciousness, but the signs enumerated in the correct option help identify the emergency before it escalates to that point.